Meet The New Rider # 1275 Jim Matthews

 

 

Early on in life Jim “Hooch” Matthews (HH #1275) had a knack for being mechanically inclined, which led to an initial career as a Class-A Toolmaker. However, his true calling in service to our nation and others drew him to enlist as an Infantry Soldier, US Army Reserve in 1985 and becoming a volunteer, and eventually a career firefighter, in 1986. After having the privilege and honor of serving both callings simultaneously, he retired from the military in 2019 and from IAFF L-1241 in 2020.

 

 

 A native, and lifelong resident of Winsted, CT with his wife Leslie, three children and five grandchildren, Jim and Leslie enjoy sharing the pleasure of wind therapy whenever the New England weather permits. 

 

 

Riding the HHMC has become the next calling inspired by lifelong friends and veteran HH riders Matt Klebe (HH #752) and Greg Lopardo (HH #993), combined with the desire to follow-thru on a promise to see the lower 48 from our saddles with fellow L-1241 retired brother firefighter Dave Walker (HH #1276). HHMC-2026 has become the challenge in the next chapter of testing fortitude, endurance and resilience; overcoming nature’s encountered adversities; all while creating lifelong memories and lies we can share around future firepit gatherings of friends and family. 

 

 

At this time HH-1275 has not locked in a non-profit he will be riding for.